U.S. patent application number 16/877179 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-19 for kitchen module for a vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Rivian IP Holdings, LLC. Invention is credited to Kaitlyn Benoit, Arthur Bledsoe, Christian Elder, Larry Parker, Elizabeth Steenwyk, Ruey-Khan Tsang.
Application Number | 20200361360 16/877179 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004857730 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200361360 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Parker; Larry ; et
al. |
November 19, 2020 |
KITCHEN MODULE FOR A VEHICLE
Abstract
A kitchen module for a vehicle includes a frame system for
providing structural support, a rail system affixed to the frame
system and the vehicle, and a plurality of kitchen components
mounted to the frame system. The rail system is configured to allow
the frame system to move relative to the vehicle. The plurality of
kitchen components include a sink, a potable water tank, a
waste-water tank, a rangetop, at least one drawer, a countertop,
lights, any other suitable component, or any combination thereof.
The vehicle, which may be an electric vehicle having a battery
module, can include an electrical extension connecting an electric
power source of the vehicle to the kitchen module. The electrical
extension may be coupled to at least one of an actuator of the rail
system and a rangetop.
Inventors: |
Parker; Larry; (Bloomfield
Hills, MI) ; Steenwyk; Elizabeth; (Detroit, MI)
; Elder; Christian; (Sylvan Lake, MI) ; Bledsoe;
Arthur; (Detroit, MI) ; Tsang; Ruey-Khan; (Ann
Arbor, MI) ; Benoit; Kaitlyn; (Detroit, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rivian IP Holdings, LLC |
Plymouth |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004857730 |
Appl. No.: |
16/877179 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62849114 |
May 16, 2019 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60P 3/36 20130101; B60R
7/02 20130101; B60R 2011/0084 20130101; B60R 2011/0082 20130101;
B60R 2011/0043 20130101; B60R 2011/0024 20130101; B60P 3/34
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B60P 3/34 20060101
B60P003/34; B60P 3/36 20060101 B60P003/36; B60R 7/02 20060101
B60R007/02 |
Claims
1. A kitchen module for a vehicle, the kitchen module comprising: a
frame system for providing structural support; and a plurality of
kitchen components mounted to the frame system, wherein: the
kitchen module, when in a stored configuration, comprises a tapered
cross-sectional shape or a slanted cross-sectional shape, and at
least one kitchen component of the plurality of kitchen components
is collapsible against the frame system.
2. The kitchen module of claim 1, wherein the plurality of kitchen
components comprise at least one of: a sink; a potable water tank;
a rangetop; at least one drawer; or a countertop.
3. The kitchen module of claim 2, wherein the sink is coupled by a
plumbing system to the potable water tank.
4. The kitchen module of claim 2, further comprising a rail system
connected to the frame system, wherein the at least one drawer
comprises an end drawer arranged between rails of the rail
system.
5. The kitchen module of claim 2, wherein the countertop comprises
at least one section that is removable.
6. The kitchen module of claim 2, wherein the countertop comprises
at least two parts coupled by a hinge, wherein the at least two
parts can rotate relative to one another.
7. The kitchen module of claim 2, wherein the at least one drawer
comprises a recess to accommodate another component.
8. The kitchen module of claim 2, further comprising: a rail system
connected to the frame system, wherein the rail system comprises
rail members arranged to slide relative to each other, allowing
motion of the frame system; and a leg configured to support at
least some of the kitchen module.
9. A kitchen module for a vehicle, the kitchen module comprising: a
frame system for providing structural support; a rail system
connected to the frame system and capable of being connected to the
vehicle; and a plurality of kitchen components mounted to the frame
system.
10. A vehicle comprising: a storage compartment; and a kitchen
module comprising: a frame system for providing structural support,
a rail system affixed to the frame system and the vehicle,
configured to allow the frame system to move relative to the
vehicle, and a plurality of kitchen components mounted to the frame
system; wherein the rail system is affixed to a surface of the
storage compartment, and wherein the kitchen module is arranged to
be extended from and retracted into the storage compartment.
11. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising an electrical
extension connecting an electric power source of the vehicle to the
kitchen module.
12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the vehicle comprises an
electric vehicle and wherein the electric power source of the
vehicle comprises a battery module that also provides power to an
electric drivetrain of the vehicle.
13. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the electrical extension is
coupled to at least one of an actuator of the rail system and a
rangetop.
14. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising an air compression
extension connecting an air compressor system of the vehicle to the
kitchen module.
15. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the vehicle further comprises
an outer panel that is arranged to be part of the vehicle exterior
when the kitchen module is retracted into the storage
compartment.
16. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising: an occupant
compartment; and a cargo bed, wherein the storage compartment is
arranged between an occupant compartment and a carbo bed.
17. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the kitchen module comprises
at least one of: a sink; a potable water tank; a rangetop; at least
one drawer; or a countertop.
18. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the kitchen module comprises a
sink and a portable water tank, and wherein the sink is coupled by
a plumbing system to the potable water tank.
19. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising a countertop that
folds out to form a horizontal surface.
20. The vehicle of claim 10, further comprising an exterior body
surface comprising an opening, wherein the storage compartment is
within the opening.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/849,114 filed May 16, 2019, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
INTRODUCTION
[0002] The present disclosure is directed towards a kitchen module
for a vehicle, and more particularly towards a kitchen module that
is accessible from storage of vehicle.
[0003] Vehicles used for off-road and sporting purposes may serve
as transportation, provide shelter, and provide accessories for
recreation. Some vehicle include storage such as truck beds, SUV
cargo areas, or even rooftop storage systems. It would be
advantageous for a vehicle to include integrated, compact
accessories for travel.
SUMMARY
[0004] In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a
kitchen module for a vehicle. The kitchen module includes a frame
system and a plurality of kitchen components. The frame system
provides structural support. In some embodiments, a rail system is
affixed to the frame system and the vehicle, and is configured to
allow the frame system to move relative to the vehicle. The
plurality of kitchen components are mounted to the frame system.
For example, the plurality of kitchen components may be any of a
sink, a potable water tank, a rangetop, at least one drawer, a
countertop, any other suitable components, or any combination
thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the sink is coupled by a
plumbing system to a potable water tank. In a further example, in
some embodiments, the rangetop is an induction rangetop. In a
further example, in some embodiments, the at least one drawer
includes an end drawer arranged between rails of the rail system.
In a further example, in some embodiments, the countertop includes
at least one section that is removable. In a further example, in
some embodiments, the countertop includes at least two parts
coupled by a hinge that can rotate relative to one another. In a
further example, in some embodiments, the at least one drawer
includes a recess to accommodate another component. In a further
example, in some embodiments, the rail system includes rail members
arranged to slide relative to each other, thus allowing axial
motion of the frame system relative to the vehicle. In some
embodiments, the kitchen module has a tapered or slanted
cross-section, when collapsed or stowed, to fit between a rear seat
and cargo compartment or bed.
[0005] In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a
vehicle having a storage compartment and a kitchen module. The
kitchen module includes a frame system for providing structural
support, a rail system affixed to the frame system and the vehicle,
and a plurality of kitchen components mounted to the frame system.
The rail system is configured to allow the frame system to move
relative to the vehicle. The rail system is affixed to a surface of
the storage compartment, and the kitchen module is arranged to be
extended from and retracted into the storage compartment.
[0006] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes an electrical
extension connecting an electric power source of the vehicle to the
kitchen module. In some embodiments, the vehicle is an electric
vehicle and the electric power source of the vehicle includes a
battery module that also provides power to an electric drivetrain
of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the electrical extension is
coupled to at least one of an actuator of the rail system and a
rangetop.
[0007] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes an air compression
extension connecting an air compressor system of the vehicle to the
kitchen module.
[0008] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes an outer panel
that is arranged to be part of the vehicle exterior when the
kitchen module is retracted into the storage compartment.
[0009] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes an occupant
compartment and a cargo bed. In some such embodiments, the storage
compartment is arranged between an occupant compartment and a carbo
bed.
[0010] In some embodiments, the kitchen module includes at least
one of a sink, a potable water tank, a rangetop, at least one
drawer, or a countertop. In some embodiments, the kitchen module
includes a sink and a portable water tank, and the sink is coupled
by a plumbing system to the potable water tank. In some
embodiments, the kitchen module includes a countertop that folds
out to form a horizontal surface. In some embodiments, the kitchen
module includes an exterior body surface comprising an opening,
wherein the storage compartment is within the opening.
[0011] In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a
modular kitchen system for a vehicle. The modular kitchen system
may include two or more submodules that are usable together to form
the modular kitchen system. For example, the submodules may include
one or more of a sink submodule, a rangetop submodule, and a cooler
or refrigerator submodule. In some embodiments, the modular kitchen
system comprises a shuttle system, on which the submodules can be
mounted and secured.
[0012] In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a
shuttle system that can be extended from either side of a vehicle.
In some embodiments, the shuttle system can be extended from a
lateral storage compartment that includes covers on both sides of
the vehicle. In some embodiments, the shuttle system may include a
release mechanism and handle on each side such that it may be
pulled and retracted from either side. In some embodiments, the
shuttle system comprises a two-way rail system that enables the
shuttle system to extend out of both sides of the vehicle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The present disclosure, in accordance with one or more
various embodiments, is described in detail with reference to the
following figures. The drawings are provided for purposes of
illustration only and merely depict typical or example embodiments.
These drawings are provided to facilitate an understanding of the
concepts disclosed herein and shall not be considered limiting of
the breadth, scope, or applicability of these concepts. It should
be noted that for clarity and ease of illustration these drawings
are not necessarily made to scale.
[0014] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a portion of an illustrative
vehicle having a kitchen module, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of an illustrative
kitchen module, pulled out from a storage compartment of a vehicle,
in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of the illustrative
kitchen module of FIG. 2, with a drawer opened, in accordance with
some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 4 shows a side perspective view (from the opposite side
as FIG. 3) of the illustrative kitchen module of FIGS. 2-3, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 5 shows a top perspective view of a portion of an
illustrative kitchen module (similar to the kitchen module of FIGS.
2-4), pulled out from a storage compartment of a vehicle, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 6 shows a top perspective view of an illustrative
kitchen module (similar to the kitchen module of FIGS. 2-5), with
lights arranged over the countertop, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 7 shows a side perspective view of an illustrative
kitchen module (similar to the kitchen module of FIGS. 2-6),
retracted and folded down, in accordance with some embodiments of
the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 8 shows a side perspective view of a portion of an
illustrative kitchen module (similar to the kitchen module of FIGS.
2-7), pulled out and folded down, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 9 shows a top perspective view of an illustrative
kitchen module with all drawers in the extended state, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 10 shows two top perspective views of the illustrative
kitchen module of FIG. 9 with the rail system extended, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 11 shows two top perspective views of an illustrative
kitchen module with the rail system extended, in accordance with
some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 12 shows two perspective views of a frame system with
drawers of an illustrative kitchen module, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 13 shows three end views of a rail system with drawers
of an illustrative kitchen module, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an illustrative vehicle
having a kitchen module, in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 15 shows a side perspective view of an illustrative
kitchen module, pulled out from a storage compartment of a vehicle
on a shuttle system, in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 16 shows a side perspective view of an illustrative
shuttle system, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure; and
[0030] FIG. 17 shows a top perspective view and bottom perspective
view of the outside end of the illustrative shuttle system of FIG.
16, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a portion of illustrative 100
vehicle having a kitchen module, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure. Vehicle 100 includes storage
compartment 150 having a volume and opening 152 to the exterior of
vehicle 100. Storage compartment 150 has a profile shape (e.g., as
viewed from the side of the vehicle) having sidewalls 153 and
corner regions 151 generally corresponding to the shape of the
opening at the vehicle exterior (e.g., behind passenger compartment
120 and in front of rear wheel well 111 and bed 102). As
illustrated, storage compartment 150 is arranged behind passenger
compartment 120 (e.g., having seats 121 and 122, and a dashboard
with vehicle controls). Storage compartment 150 includes opening
152, which provides access to the kitchen module for a user. For
example, the user may open a hatch or door at opening 150, and then
pull out the kitchen module to the side of vehicle 100 to provide
access of kitchen items to the user. In some embodiments, storage
compartment 150 may have a first opening on the left side of the
vehicle, and a second opening on the right side of the vehicle
(e.g., opening 152 is one of the openings, with the other on the
opposite side of vehicle 100).
[0032] In an illustrative example, a storage compartment (e.g.,
storage compartment 150) may include one or more sidewalls, which
may be a continuous wall that is entirely curved in cross section,
a continuous wall that includes both curved portions and straight
portions in cross section, or a continuous wall with straight
and/or curved portions in cross section with defined edges between
sidewalls. For example, the sidewall(s) may be composed of several
pieces of panel material assembled together. In a further example,
if the sidewall is composed of several pieces, they may be
connected together by welding, or with fasteners, or by glue, or
using another means of connecting components. In some embodiments,
the sidewalls may be made out of plastic, metal alloy such as steel
sheet or aluminum alloy sheet or the like, composite materials, or
other suitable material. In some embodiments, the storage
compartment may be shaped in cross section in a substantially
rectangular shape (e.g., a square shape). In some embodiments, the
storage compartment is shaped in cross section in an asymmetric
shape (e.g., a polygon shape with no right angles between one
sidewall portion and an adjacent sidewall portion and with one
sidewall that is longer in cross section than the rest of the
sidewalls). For example, as illustrated, the front sidewall
includes a straight portion that is angled towards the back of the
vehicle. The rear sidewall includes two straight portions, where
the lower straight portion is angled towards the back of the
vehicle and the upper straight portion is angled towards the front
of the vehicle. In some embodiments, this asymmetric shape
increases or maximizes the volume of the storage compartment
between the rear seat 122, rear wheel well 111, and the bed of the
vehicle. For example, as illustrated the bottom front portion of
the storage compartment extends under the seatback of rear seat 122
and the rearmost portion of the storage compartment extends above a
portion of rear wheel well 111.
[0033] FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of illustrative kitchen
module 200, pulled out from a storage compartment of a vehicle (not
shown in FIG. 2), in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. Kitchen module 200 includes rail system 210
that affixes to the vehicle, within the storage compartment,
allowing a linear motion of kitchen module 200. In some
embodiments, kitchen module 200 is an after-market accessory and
rail system 210 that can be mounted to hard points in the storage
component (e.g., via bolts). In some embodiments, kitchen module
200 is a factory-installed option. A user may pull out kitchen
module 200 from the storage compartment, through the opening, by
applying a force on kitchen module 200 such that it slides or rolls
along rail system 210. Kitchen module 200, as illustrated, includes
water tank 251 (e.g., potable water, waste water, or multiple tanks
for each), plumbing corresponding to water tank 251, countertop
260, sink 261 (e.g., arranged in countertop 260 below removable
cover 262, as illustrated), rangetop 265 (e.g., arranged in
countertop 260 for heating pans, as illustrated), and a plurality
of drawers 220 (e.g., including end drawer 221, and electric kettle
drawer 225), along with any other suitable components of the
present disclosure. As illustrated, countertop 260 is two-part,
wherein the rear part (e.g., including sink 261 and rangetop 265)
is configured to fold down to fit through the opening in the
vehicle. In some embodiments, kitchen module 200 may include a leg
or a stand configured to support at least some weight of kitchen
module 200 (e.g., when extended).
[0034] Kitchen module 200 may include any suitable shape, in
accordance with the present disclosure. For example, in some
embodiments, as illustrated, kitchen module 200 is tapered,
narrowing at the top and widening at the bottom to fit in a
corresponding storage compartment (e.g., to maximize use of the
space between a cargo bed and rear seat). In a further example, in
some embodiments, kitchen module 200 may be slanted, having a fixed
width but following a slanted or curved path (e.g., slanted or
curved from vertical in the front-back axis of the vehicle) to fit
in a corresponding storage compartment (e.g., to maximize use of
the space between a cargo bed and rear seat). A kitchen module
(e.g., kitchen module 200) may include any suitable cross-sectional
shape, in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of illustrative kitchen
module 200 of FIG. 2, with a drawer opened, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 also shows some of
the vehicle exterior for reference, and indicates opening 250, from
which kitchen module 200 may be accessed.
[0036] FIG. 4 shows a side perspective view (from the opposite side
as FIG. 3) of kitchen module 200 of FIGS. 2-3, in accordance with
some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 also shows some
of the vehicle exterior for reference, and indicates opening 250,
from which kitchen module 200 may be accessed. Frame system 215 is
illustrated in FIG. 4, which forms the structural support for the
components of kitchen module 200. In an illustrative example, sink
261 may be collapsible, folding down into a recess (e.g., to fit
through opening 250 and to a storage compartment). Sink 261 may be
rigid (e.g., a metal basin) and configured to fold down as a rigid
body, flexible and capable of being compressed or folded itself to
achieve a smaller volume (e.g., formed from plastic sheet or other
flexible material), or a combination thereof.
[0037] FIG. 5 shows a top perspective view of a portion of
illustrative kitchen module 500 (e.g., similar to kitchen module
200 of FIGS. 2-4), pulled out from a storage compartment of a
vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure. As illustrated, kitchen module 500 includes countertop
260 having one or more countertop sections that are movable,
removable, or both. For example, as illustrated, countertop section
562 is flipped back to reveal sink 561. As illustrated, countertop
560 is two-part as illustrated, and includes a hinge (not visible
in FIG. 5) allowing the countertop to fold along hinge axis 599.
Faucet 569 and associated plumbing (e.g., hosing, tubing, valves,
filters, fittings), which is coupled to water tank 551, is affixed
to sink 561 by bracket 568 and arranged to provide water to the
sink basin (e.g., for washing dishes as illustrated). In some
embodiments, faucet 569 and plumbing may be retractable,
dis-connectable, or both. For example, faucet 569 can be
disconnected from countertop 560 and a hose can be retracted
through a slot in countertop 560 above water tank 551. The slot can
be shaped to receive faucet 569 such that the underside of faucet
569 is visible when fully retracted. In some embodiments, the
underside of faucet 569 is flush with the surface of countertop 560
when fully retracted. The sink basin of sink 561 may include a
drain, but need not (e.g., sink 560 may be removable and can be
"dumped"). In some embodiments, kitchen module 500 includes a
waste-water tank coupled to the sink basin, wherein waste-water
from the sink basin flows into the waste-water tank (e.g., for
subsequent dumping or otherwise disposal). In some embodiments,
kitchen module 500 includes a waste-water drain hose coupled to the
sink basin to direct the waste-water to a desired location on the
ground or a grate of a waste-water drain system in the ground.
[0038] FIG. 6 shows a top perspective view of illustrative kitchen
module 600 (e.g., similar to kitchen modules 200 and 500 of FIGS.
2-5), with lights 675 arranged over countertop 660, in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some
embodiments, a kitchen module includes light fixtures and bulbs
arranged to illuminate the user-accessible surfaces of the kitchen
module. For example, as illustrated, kitchen module 600 includes
posts 670 and 671, which are configured to rotate into the
illustrated position as shown by the curved, black arrows. Posts
670 and 671 are used to festoon lighting fixtures (e.g., lights
675) over countertop 660. For example, rope, twine, a chain, cable,
electrical wire, or other suitable member may be used to suspend or
otherwise hold the light fixtures. The lighting fixtures may be
wired (e.g., powered by 12 VDC from the vehicle, 110 VAC from a
DC-AC converter), battery powered, or both. An enlargement of post
671 is shown, illustrating features 672 that may be used in holding
the lighting fixtures (e.g., features such as a hook, a hole, a
ring). Rangetop 665 illustrated in FIG. 6 may be folded down
against rangetop recess 666 for retraction of kitchen module 600
into the vehicle. In some embodiments, outer panel 626 includes a
portion of the vehicle exterior (e.g., arranged above end drawer
621, as illustrated).
[0039] FIG. 7 shows a side perspective view of illustrative kitchen
module 700 (e.g., similar to kitchen module 200, 500, and 600 of
FIGS. 2-6), retracted and folded down, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 7,
when kitchen module 700 is retracted (e.g., in the storage
compartment of the vehicle, not shown in FIG. 7), it is in a folded
down configuration (e.g., providing compactness for storage). The
folded down module may be pulled out and unfolded about hinge 798
(e.g., rotated about axis 799) to form the horizontal countertops
760 (e.g., including removable countertop section 762), rangetop
765, and sink 761 (e.g., becoming less compact but more
functional). The components of kitchen module 700 may be mounted to
frame system 715 (e.g., to provide structural rigidity), which is
in turn mounted to the rail system 710 (e.g., to provide axial
motion). As shown in FIG. 7, the front portion of kitchen module
700, in the folded down configuration, includes a relatively large
flat surface that is angled backwards. In some embodiments, this
angle is the same as the angle of the front side wall of the
storage compartment (see, e.g., storage compartment 150 of FIG. 1).
In some embodiments, the front portion of kitchen module 700, when
retracted in the storage compartment, lies under the seatback of a
rear seat of a vehicle.
[0040] FIG. 8 shows a side perspective view of a portion of
illustrative kitchen module 800 (e.g., similar to kitchen modules
200, 500, 600, and 700 of FIGS. 2-7), pulled out and folded down,
in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG.
8 shows removable sink 861 partially removed from a sink recess and
the removeable countertop section above the sink removed. Frame
system 815 maintains the position of, and constrains motion of,
components of kitchen module 800 (e.g., such as countertop 860 and
sink 861). Sink 861, when installed, and countertop 860 may be
rotated to horizontal via hinge 898.
[0041] FIG. 9 shows a top perspective view of illustrative kitchen
module 900 with all drawers (e.g. drawers 921-925) in the extended
state, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure. As illustrated, drawer 921 is an end drawer, drawers
924 and 925 are hinge-out drawers, and drawers 922 and 923 are
pull-out drawers. As illustrated, sink 961 is collapsed down
against frame system 915 to achieve a compact shape (e.g., to fit
within a storage compartment). In some embodiments, as illustrated,
sink 261 is rigid and configured to fold down as a rigid body. In
some embodiments, sink 261 is flexible and capable of being
compressed, folded, or rolled itself to achieve a smaller volume
for storage when not in use (e.g., formed from plastic sheet or
other flexible material).
[0042] Illustrative dimensions are provided herein to illustrate
length scales that may be achieved in accordance with the present
disclosure. It will be understood that a kitchen module, and
drawers thereof, may include any suitable dimensions in accordance
with the present disclosure.
[0043] In an illustrative example, drawer 921 may be 140 mm wide,
70 mm tall, and 615 mm deep, and may be arranged between rails of
rail system 910 (e.g., to use the space between rails as storage).
In a further illustrative example, drawer 921 may be configured to
store pantry items, cleaning supplies, and any other suitable
equipment, and may include one or more dividers to partition the
volume within drawer 921.
[0044] In an illustrative example, drawer 922 may be 598 mm wide,
150 mm tall, and 230 mm deep. In a further illustrative example,
drawer 922 may be configured to store cookware, short pots, pantry
items, cleaning supplies, cutting boards, flatware, and any other
suitable equipment, and may include one or more dividers to
partition the volume within drawer 922.
[0045] In an illustrative example, drawer 923 may be 598 mm wide,
100 mm tall, and 185 mm deep. In a further illustrative example,
drawer 923 may be configured to store cookware, utensils, spices,
cleaning supplies, cutting boards, flatware, and any other suitable
equipment, and may include one or more dividers to partition the
volume within drawer 923.
[0046] In an illustrative example, drawer 924 may be 316 mm wide,
310 mm tall, and 160 mm deep. In a further illustrative example,
drawer 924 may be configured to store pans, cast iron pots/pans,
cutting boards, grilling/baking sheets, and any other suitable
equipment, and may include one or more dividers to partition the
volume within drawer 924.
[0047] In an illustrative example, drawer 925 may be 329 mm wide,
310 mm tall, and 285 mm deep. In a further illustrative example,
drawer 924 may be configured to store pots, tall cookware, a water
kettle, and any other suitable equipment, and may include one or
more dividers to partition the volume within drawer 925.
[0048] FIG. 10 shows top perspective views 1000 and 1050 of
illustrative kitchen module 900 of FIG. 9 with rail system 910
extended, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 10, rail members 912 of rail
system 910 are configured to slide relative to rail members 911
(e.g., which are affixed to the vehicle) and are affixed to frame
system 915 of kitchen module 900 (e.g., illustrated as uncovered).
This allows for more storage space but may be less appealing to the
user or may allow dirt, water, or grit to get into the rails.
Exposed slides (e.g., rail members 912 affixed to frame system 915)
may be preferred in some circumstances. A rail system may include
any suitable rail type, and may include wheel bearings, slide
bushings, telescoping components, any other suitable components for
allowing linear motion of a kitchen module, or any combination
thereof.
[0049] FIG. 11 shows top perspective views 1150 and 1151 of
illustrative kitchen module 1100 with rail system 1110 extended, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As
illustrated in FIG. 11, rail members of rail system 1110 that are
affixed to frame system 1115 of kitchen module 1100 are covered
(e.g., by covers 1113 and 1114 as illustrated). This allows for
protection against dirt, water, or grit to getting into the rails,
although storage space may be reduced. Covered slides may be
preferred in some circumstances (e.g., the covers may be
aesthetically pleasing for a user, the covers may improve the
durability of rail system 1110). As illustrated, sink 1161 is
collapsed down against frame system 1115 to achieve a compact shape
(e.g., to fit within a storage compartment).
[0050] As illustrated, kitchen system 1100 includes drawers 1121,
1122, 1123, 1124, and 1125, cover 1126, and end cover 1127. For
example, kitchen system 1100 may be the same as kitchen system 900
of FIGS. 9-10 with some covers added.
[0051] FIG. 12 shows perspective views 1250 and 1251 of frame
system 1215 with drawers (e.g., including drawer 1225) of
illustrative kitchen module 1200, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure. Kitchen module 1200 includes
rail system 1210, frame system 1215, and drawer 1225 (e.g., with
sink recess 1262). As illustrated in FIG. 12, drawer 1225 includes
sink recess 1262 configured to accommodate a sink in the folded
down configuration. In some embodiments, a kitchen module includes
drawers that are hinged (e.g., drawer 1225, as illustrated), on
rails, or a combination thereof.
[0052] FIG. 13 shows end views 1350, 1351, and 1352 of rail system
1310 with drawers 1325 of illustrative kitchen module 1300, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As
illustrated in FIG. 13, drawer 1325 may rotate about hinge point
1330, avoiding interference with rail system 1310. For example,
hinge point 1330 allows drawer 1325 to rotate relative to frame
system 1315.
[0053] FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of illustrative vehicle 1400
having a kitchen module 1420, in accordance with some embodiments
of the present disclosure. Vehicle 1400 includes electric power
system 1402, optionally compressed air system 1404, and kitchen
module 1420. In some embodiments, vehicle 1400 is an electric
vehicle. For example, vehicle 1400 may include a battery module
that provides electrical energy to a motor drive train as well as
auxiliary components, any other suitable modules or systems (e.g.,
kitchen module 1420), or a combination thereof. As illustrated in
FIG. 14, kitchen module 1420 includes rail system 1421, cook system
1422, and water system 1423.
[0054] Rail system 1421 couples a frame system of kitchen module
1420 to one or more structural components or systems of vehicle
1400 (e.g., of a storage compartment). In some embodiments, rail
system 1421 includes one or more actuators that are configured to
apply a force or a torque to electromechanically actuate a rail
mechanism. For example, the user may select a button on a key fob,
button panel or dashboard control, or a soft button of a smartphone
hosting a vehicle software application, to provide an indication to
the electric power system to provide electrical power to the
actuator. In an illustrative example, the user may press a button
near an outer panel, which may provide a signal to an on-board
computer of the vehicle to actuate the rail system and extend
kitchen module 1400 from the storage compartment. In some
embodiments, one or more electrical cables extends from the
electrical power system (e.g., including control switches, fuses,
or other electrical components) to an actuator of rail system
1421.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 14, kitchen module 1420 includes cook
system 1422 that may include a rangetop having one or more
"burners" that heat cooking receptacles. In some embodiments, cook
system 1422 includes one or more induction cooking surfaces, one or
more ohmic heating elements, or a combination thereof. In some
embodiments, one or more electrical cables extends from the
electrical power system (e.g., including control switches, fuses,
or other electrical components) to cook system 1422. In some
embodiments, cook system 1422 may include electrical components
(e.g., with user-adjustable controls) for adjusting the cooking
heat provided by a rangetop.
[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 14, kitchen module 1422 includes
water system 1423 that provides water to a sink, manages
wastewater, or both. In some embodiments, water system 1423
includes one or more tanks, one or more pumps, one or more filters,
associated plumbing, faucets, drains, any other suitable
components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or
more electrical cables extends from the electrical power system
(e.g., including control switches, fuses, or other electrical
components) to water system 1423 to power one or more electric
liquid pumps (e.g., that pump water to or from a sink). In some
embodiments, vehicle 1400 includes an air compressor system (e.g.,
compressed air system 1404), and one or more compressed air lines
extends from the air compressor system to water system 1423 to
power one or more pneumatic liquid pumps, or to apply pressure to a
tank to cause the liquid to flow. In an illustrative example, the
air compressor line may be coupled to a free-board region of the
tank, or to a bladder within the tank, and as compressed air flows
to the tank, or bladder therein, liquid is pumped out of the tank
and to a sink or other suitable dispenser.
[0057] FIG. 15 shows a side perspective view of illustrative
kitchen module 1500, pulled out from a storage compartment of a
vehicle on a shuttle, in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. Kitchen module 1500 includes shuttle system
1510 (e.g., which may be a rail system or otherwise include a rail
system) that affixes to the vehicle, within storage compartment
1592, allowing a linear motion of kitchen module 1500 (e.g., out of
opening 1591). For example, shuttle system 1510 may include an
internal rail system or a rail system mounted on the underside of
the horizontal portion of shuttle system 1510. In some embodiments,
kitchen module 1500 includes shuttle system 1510, with submodule
1501 and submodule 1502. As illustrated, submodule 1501 is a sink
submodule with faucet 1569, countertop 1563, and sink recess 1567
(e.g., for accommodating sink 1561, when sink 1561 is collapsed or
folded down either as a rigid body or as a flexible component). As
illustrated, submodule 1502 is a rangetop module with rangetop
1565, countertop 1560, and rangetop recess 1566 (e.g., for
accommodating rangetop 1565, when rangetop 1565 is collapsed or
folded down). For example, submodules 1501 and 1502 may be
removable, swappable, or otherwise separate from shuttle system
1510. In a further example, submodules 1501 and 1502 may be
connected to shuttle system 1510 (e.g., as needed) via a latching
system (e.g., respective latches 1511 and 1512), for storage in
storage compartment 1592 or after shuttle system 1510 is extended
out of storage compartment 1592. In some embodiments, kitchen
module 1500 is a factory-installed option (e.g., pre-assembled with
a shuttle system and submodules). In some embodiments, kitchen
module 1500 is an aftermarket option (e.g., the shuttle system
and/or submodules are provided separately for assembly). To
illustrate, a user may pull out kitchen module 1500, or shuttle
system 1510 (e.g., if no submodules are installed) from storage
compartment 1592, through opening 1591, by applying a force on
kitchen module 1500, or shuttle system 1510. Kitchen module 1500,
as illustrated, includes water tank 1551 (e.g., which may itself be
a submodule that may be connected to shuttle system 1510), and
plumbing corresponding to water tank 1551. As illustrated, cover
1590, which include part of the vehicle exterior, folds as shown by
the dotted arrow in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, when cover 1590
is folded down to substantially horizontal (as illustrated),
kitchen module 1500, or shuttle system 1510 thereof, may rest on
the inside face of cover 1590. For example, cover 1590 may support
at least some of the weight of kitchen module 1500, when
extended.
[0058] As illustrated, shuttle system 1510 includes leg 1570. Leg
1570 is configured to support at least some weight of kitchen
module 1500 when extended. For example, kitchen module 1500 may be
cantilevered when extended from storage compartment 1592, and leg
1570 may reduce the loading on the near-vehicle portion of kitchen
module 1500. In a further example, the weight of kitchen module
1500, and any user-applied forces, may be supported by leg 1570,
cover 1590, a portion of a rail system or shuttle system 1510, or a
combination thereof. In some embodiments, leg 1570 is telescoping
in the vertical direction (e.g., such that it is shortened when
stowed or folded). In some embodiments, leg 1570 is foldable or
otherwise collapsible (e.g., against the bottom of the horizontal
portion of shuttle system 1510. As illustrated, mechanism 1573
(e.g., a handle shaped button that, when pressed, releases shuttle
system 1510 to move, as illustrated) locks and releases shuttle
system 1510 along its access of travel. For example, shuttle system
1510 may include one or more detents that provide stable positions
(e.g., lock every six inches). Further details of shuttle system
1510 are provided in the context of FIGS. 16-17. In an illustrative
example, any of the kitchen modules of the present disclosure may
include a rail system, a shuttle system, or a combination
thereof.
[0059] Submodules may include any suitable shape, in accordance
with the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, a
submodule may be tapered, narrowing at the top and widening at the
bottom to fit in a corresponding storage compartment (e.g., to
maximize use of the space between a cargo bed and rear seat). In a
further example, in some embodiments, a submodule may be slanted,
having a fixed width but following a slanted or curved path (e.g.,
slanted or curved from vertical in the front-back axis of the
vehicle) to fit in a corresponding storage compartment (e.g., to
maximize use of the space between a cargo bed and rear seat). In
addition, submodules 1501 and 1502 are merely illustrative and any
other types of submodules may be used in accordance with the
present disclosure. For example, a cooler or refrigerator submodule
may be provided as part of kitchen module 1500. In some
embodiments, the submodules are interchangeable, and the particular
submodules selected or used as part of kitchen module 1500 can be
selected by the user.
[0060] FIG. 16 shows a side perspective view of illustrative
shuttle system 1600, in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. FIG. 17 shows a top perspective view and bottom
perspective view of the outside end of the illustrative shuttle
system of FIG. 16, in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. As illustrated, shuttle system 1600 includes
leg 1670 (e.g., telescoping members 1671 and 1672), platform 1601,
latches 1651, connectors 1650, handle 1602, release mechanism 1673,
and release mechanism 1674. As illustrated, shuttle system 1600
includes through feature 1675 (e.g., for clearing a striker or
other feature of a cover such as cover 1590 of FIG. 15), which may
include a flexible rubber sheathing. Members 1671 and 1672 of leg
1670 are configured to extend and retract relative to each other,
and may include one or more position detents. Leg 1670 is
configured to fold up to the underside of platform 1601 when
release mechanism 1674 is pulled. In some embodiments, release
mechanism 1674 may include a ratchet or other detent to define one
or more positions. When release mechanism 1673 is depressed,
shuttle system 1600 may be retracted or extended from a storage
compartment (e.g., fully or partially). A user may apply force to
handle 1602 to pull or push shuttle system 1600 (e.g., for
extending or retracting). In an illustrative example, any of the
illustrative kitchen modules of the present disclosure may include
one or more handles. In some embodiments, platform 1601 slides
along grooves of a storage compartment to allow extension and
retraction. In some embodiments, platform 1601 includes a rail
system that allows platform 1601 to be extended and retracted from
a storage compartment. In some embodiments, a shuttle system may
include one or more stationary components connected to the vehicle
(e.g., bolted into the storage compartment). In some embodiments,
shuttle system 1600 includes or interfaces to a stationary
component that remains in a storage compartment. For example, the
stationary component may be coupled to an electrical system, a
fluid system, or both to provide functionality to shuttle system
1600. In some embodiments, shuttle system 1600 may include a track
system or conduit configured to provide electrical power or other
resource to a kitchen module.
[0061] Latches 1651 are configured to secure and release submodules
from platform 1601. Latches 1651 may be manually operated (e.g.,
handle levers or other suitable mechanisms), automatically operated
(e.g., cinching actuators or electromechanical latches), controlled
by a user, a control system, or a combination thereof. A shuttle
system may include any suitable number of latches, arranged in any
suitable configuration.
[0062] Connectors 1650 may include electrical connectors, fittings
(e.g., for water, coolant, air, or other suitable fluid), or a
combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, connectors
1650 include electrical terminals configured to provide or receive
12 VDC, 120 VAC, sensor signals, control signals, electrical power
or signals at any other suitable voltage or character, or any
combination thereof. To illustrate, connectors 1650 may include a
plastic with one or more alignment features to align to
corresponding features of a submodule. To further illustrate, a
submodule may include a mating connector that mates to one or more
of connectors 1650 to couple an electrical system, fluid system,
any other suitable system, or any combination thereof of a
submodule to an interfacing system of the shuttle system (e.g., and
vehicle). A shuttle system may include any suitable number of
connectors, for coupling any suitable systems, arranged in any
suitable configuration. In some embodiments, connectors 1650 need
not engage with mating connectors when a submodule is installed.
For example, in some embodiments, a submodule may, but need not,
cover connectors 1650. In a further example, a user may engage a
mating connector to one or more of connectors 1650 (e.g., a
submodule may allow access to connectors 1650 when installed).
[0063] In an illustrative example, a rail system or shuttle system
may be manually operated, automatically operated, or a combination
thereof. For example, in some embodiments, a user may push and pull
a portion of the rail system or shuttle system to retract or extend
the system. In a further example, a user may push a button or
otherwise provide an indication (e.g., on a key fob or touchscreen)
to cause an actuator to retract or extend the rail system or
shuttle system.
[0064] In an illustrative example, in some embodiments, a storage
compartment may include an opening on each side of the vehicle, and
accordingly, a kitchen module (or rail system or shuttle system
thereof) may be extended from either side of the vehicle (e.g., the
storage compartment may include two covers, and be a through recess
in the vehicle. For example, a shuttle system (e.g., including a
two-way travel rail system) may include a release mechanism and
handle on each side such that it may be pulled and retracted from
either side.
[0065] The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of
this disclosure, and various modifications may be made by those
skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this
disclosure. The above described embodiments are presented for
purposes of illustration and not of limitation. The present
disclosure also can take many forms other than those explicitly
described herein. Accordingly, it is emphasized that this
disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods,
systems, and apparatuses, but is intended to include variations to
and modifications thereof, which are within the spirit of the
following claims.
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